AhaBulb: Stuff Everyone Should Know · ahabulb.com/boat-throwable-immediately-available
How must a required throwable flotation device be kept on a boat?
Immediately available, not packed away.
- Locked in a storage locker
- Immediately available ✔
- Zipped in its original plastic bag
Why: 33 CFR 175.19 says wearable PFDs must be readily accessible and the throwable must be immediately available. The Coast Guard guide suggests keeping it on deck within arm's reach.
Huh, didn't know that: The guide warns not to stow wearable life jackets in plastic bags, in locked compartments, or under other gear.
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References
Answer: Immediately available. 33 CFR 175.19 says wearable PFDs must be readily accessible and the throwable must be immediately available. The Coast Guard guide suggests keeping it on deck within arm's reach.
- 33 CFR 175.19 Stowage (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-175.19
each throwable PFD required by § 175.15 is immediately available.
Checked 2026-10-08. - USCG A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (2023) www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf
They should not be stowed in plastic bags, in locked or closed compartments, or have other gear stowed on top of them.
Checked 2026-10-08.
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